Tech:NYC White Papers

Government Access to Encrypted Data

In our first white paper, we discuss the topic of encryption and government access to encrypted data. We start by exploring events of 2015 and 2016, including the FBI’s attempt to force Apple to create software to let the FBI access data on a terrorist’s iPhone. Then we summarize arguments against requiring technology companies to unlock devices for the government. We end by examining recent legislative efforts around smartphone encryption and statements from public officials on the matter including President Trump and New York City DA Cy Vance.

Tech:NYC Policy Briefs

Policy Briefs break down the issues we're working on behalf of our community in New York City, Albany, and Washington, D.C. We'll be continuously adding and updating (follow us on Twitter and Facebook to find out when). These briefs support the work we do, like the letter we sent to President Trump, signed by more than 2,000 New Yorkers working in tech, opposing his executive order on immigration.*

Net Neutrality: The FCC's "Internet Freedom" NPRM

The FCC recently announced plans to roll back net neutrality protections that were implemented in 2015. As stated in its notice of proposed rulemaking, the FCC intends to “restore internet freedom for all Americans" by giving Internet Service Providers (ISPs) less oversight. Naturally, this plan has created renewed debate on the topic.

NY Electronic Communications Privacy Act

In light of increased use of mobile devices and cloud computing, both the New York Assembly and Senate have introduced nearly identical bills extending warrant requirements to electronic communication information.

HomeSharinG

Currently, New York law prohibits many instances of homesharing, like renting out an apartment in a multiple-unit building for fewer than 30 days. This results in lost opportunity for New Yorkers who want to take advantage of homesharing platforms to rent their homes and lost tax dollars for New York. We support proposals to reasonably allow homesharing across New York.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

DACA has given hundreds of thousands young immigrants (many brought here through no choice of their own) the chance to live, work, and thrive in this country. As long as the Administration’s action stands in its current form, many people who were provided legal protection from deportation under DACA will be continue to be in indefinite limbo.

New York State Marketplace provider tax

The New York marketplace tax would be a tax on internet marketplaces doing $100M+ in sales annually. It would create serious operational burdens and send a message to internet marketplaces, and tech companies more broadly, that they are not welcome here.

public safety/privacy act Executive order

The Public Safety Executive Order, signed by President Trump on January 25th signals a shift in the administration’s stance toward the privacy rights of EU citizens and may put the newly minted US-EU Privacy Shield at risk.

immigration/travel ban executive order

On March 6th, President Trump signed an executive order replacing the prior order that was essentially invalidated by several federal courts. Given the breadth of prior decisions, it is unclear whether the changes to the Order will be sufficient to withstand such challenges.

H-1B Immigration visa

Many tech companies rely on the H-1B visa program to get access to high-skilled talent. This important program - which is far from perfect and could use reform - faces an uncertain future in the current political environment.

portable benefits

As more and more workers shift from traditional full-time employment to contract or part-time work, we need to find new ways to protect those workers by ensuring that they have access to the kind of benefits that traditionally came from full-time employers, like access to benefits, vacation time, and paid leave.

NYC Tech Leaders Oppose Trump Immigration Ban

On January 30, 2017, New York tech leaders came together to stand in opposition to President Trump’s executive orders suspending entry for citizens of certain countries and limiting the refugee program. The letter we sent to the President is below.